Monrovia, Liberia – Dr. Clarence K. Moniba, Political Leader of the Liberian National Union (LINU), has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the government’s response to the fire that engulfed the Capitol Building, the home of Liberia’s Legislature, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
In a sharply worded statement, Dr. Moniba condemned what he called a premature and unsubstantiated claim that the fire was caused by an “electrical fault,” emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation.
“This situation is deeply troubling and absolutely unacceptable,” Dr. Moniba said. “The culprits responsible must face justice, no exceptions.”
Dr. Moniba criticized the misallocation of national resources, highlighting the Liberia National Fire Service’s (LNFS) annual budget of just $3 million as inadequate to manage critical emergencies. In contrast, he pointed to lawmakers receiving over $30 million annually in salaries, constituency projects, and immunities.
“How can we fully blame the LNFS when their budget is a fraction of what is allocated to our lawmakers?” he asked.
The fire has reignited public frustration over mismanagement, resource allocation, and insufficient support for critical infrastructure and emergency response systems.
Dr. Moniba described the Capitol Building fire as symbolic of deeper systemic failures. He argued that Liberia’s governance remains stagnant, dominated by two major political institutions for more than 20 years.
“The building does not belong to lawmakers who occupy it temporarily—it belongs to the people of Liberia,” he said, urging citizens to demand better governance.
He emphasized the need for leadership that prioritizes accountability, innovation, and the well-being of the Liberian people.
The fire, which severely disrupted operations at the Legislature, has raised concerns about safety protocols and Liberia’s emergency preparedness. Many have questioned whether more could have been done to prevent or mitigate the damage.
As investigations continue, Dr. Moniba’s critique has struck a chord with many Liberians demanding justice and reform. The incident has amplified calls for a reexamination of national priorities and leadership practices to ensure a safer and more equitable future for Liberia.
